Narcissistic rage

by Harley Therapy | Finding a therapist

Published

A passing scroll through the waterfalls of daily social media content quickly highlights the behaviours of an increasingly narcissistic society. Gym selfies, duck faces, hashtag proud, you know how it goes.

However, if you need additional proof, look no further than the following social study. In 1963, when asked if they felt important, just 12 per cent of young people answered yes. Fast forward 30 years and that that number has soared to 80 per cent.

However, narcissism in its extreme form is a mental health disorder which can present as narcissistic rage.

Before looking at the issue of narcissistic rage, we should uncover the potential aspects of narcissistic personality disorder. Typically, a narcissist will display an aura of grandiosity, mixed with an absence of empathy for others and a longing for appreciation.

Additional traits include arrogance, self-centeredness and manipulation. They may also focus on their own success, beauty and brilliance - asserting they deserve special treatment.

It is thought up to 6.2 percent of the adult population may be affected by this disorder.

Narcissistic rage can occur when the narcissist doesn’t get his or her own way or when they are challenged on their behaviour. They also may act angrily if they’re not the centre of attention.

Defined as intense anger, aggression, or passive-aggression, narcissistic rage can also occur when a narcissist experiences an obstruction or disappointment which fractures their illusions of superiority - prompting feelings of vulnerability, inadequacy and shame.

Distinguishing narcissistic rage from regular anger is its level of aggression or how disproportionate it may seem to the situation. If you would like help with these issues, please click here.